Remote Access App Quick Reviews

If you’ve used remote desktop software on a mobile device, you know that the index finger is a very imprecise substitute for a mouse pointer. When the desktop shrinks down to the size of a mobile phone display, it can be difficult to tap the icon you want—let alone use a program effectively once you successfully launch it. Parallels Access aims to be the “missing link” between mobile devices and desktop computers.

Parallels Access iPhone and iPad Screenshots

iPhone Screenshots

iPad Screenshots

TeamViewer is the only remote software app that is completely free for home users. In a 2014 Lifehacker survey of 7,780 readers, TeamViewer was overwhelmingly named the best of all remote desktop applications with more than 60 percent of the vote. TeamViewer supports one of the widest audiences of all remote desktop products, including some platforms on which few remote desktop applications run. However, because all the apps reviewed here are so good, a few nits keep it from being our top pick.

TeamViewer iPhone and iPad Screenshots

iPhone Screenshots

iPad Screenshots

If you are willing to put up with less-than-stellar gaming performance at times and don’t want to be tethered to your desk when playing games, you’re likely to love Splashtop Remote. Its intuitive gesture-based controls make a tablet’s touch interface feel completely natural during gaming. Splashtop also moves smoothly from the home to most business environments with its robust security, multi-user deployment and Active Directory support. With many remote desktop products failing to take Active Directory into account, Splashtop Remote is an exception that’s surprisingly affordable. However, we did find some performance and user interface issues.

Official Splashtop iPhone and iPad Screenshots

iPhone Screenshots

Those seeking the freedom of remotely accessing their home computer from a mobile device or any other computer with an Internet connection can easily do so with GoToMyPC software. It lets you work anywhere to use programs like the Adobe suite and also write emails, edit invoices, access your home computer’s control panel, invite guests for desktop sharing, access and print all files from your computer remotely. However, the set up was not flawless and its user interface is not quite as tid as Parallels Access’s.

GoToMyPC iPhone and iPad Screenshots

iPhone Screenshots

iPad Screenshots

If you need a solid and popular solution for accessing a computer remotely and don’t require the bells and whistles offered in more expensive remote desktop solutions, LogMeIn might be exactly what you’re looking for. We found the installation and basic functionality to be solid and easy to use. However, we did have some issues with lag and the user interface for Android smart phones. LogMeIn is probably the most popular remote desktop app for off-site IT support teams.